Benjani back to square one

WHEN Benjani Mwaruwari first outlined what he needed to take Highlanders forward, one position stood out above the rest, a performance analyst.

The Bosso coach made no secret of his desire to have a specialist dedicated to gathering data, studying opponents and providing the technical insights that have become an integral part of the modern game.

Highlanders eventually responded by appointing Calvin Mavhunga.

But just three months later, Benjani finds himself back where he started.

Mavhunga has resigned, leaving the Highlanders coach without the specialist he had specifically requested to strengthen his technical department.

The development was confirmed by Highlanders chairman Kenneth Mhlophe in his report ahead of the club’s Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM), where he also disclosed that Mavhunga left while he was owed salaries and winning bonuses.

“Performance analyst Calvin Mavhunga resigned from his position on the 15th of June 2026 having been with the club for only a few months and has not been replaced. At the time of his resignation, Mavhunga was owed two and a half months’ salary and winning bonuses bringing the total to US$5 725,” said Mhlophe.

The resignation is another blow for Mwaruwari, who had previously spoken about the importance of having a dedicated analyst in his backroom staff.

Long before Mavhunga’s appointment, Benjani had explained that he wanted someone whose primary responsibility would be analysing opponents, collecting performance data and providing detailed reports to aid tactical planning.

It was one of the areas he believed needed strengthening as he sought to modernise Highlanders’ technical set-up.

The appointment of Mavhunga was therefore seen as a positive step towards giving the former Zimbabwe captain the support structure he wanted.

However, the partnership proved short-lived.

While analysts rarely grab headlines, they have become indispensable in today’s game. Their work ranges from breaking down opposition tactics and identifying strengths and weaknesses to reviewing their own team’s performances using video and statistical data.

For a coach trying to build consistency and implement his philosophy, the role is increasingly viewed as a necessity rather than a luxury.

Mavhunga’s departure also throws the spotlight back on Highlanders’ financial challenges.

The chairman’s report also outlined several outstanding financial commitments involving former members of the technical team, highlighting the administrative and financial hurdles the club continues to face.

For Benjani, the immediate challenge is replacing a specialist in a position he had long identified as critical. Whether Highlanders move quickly to fill the vacancy could have a bearing on the coach’s preparations as Bosso continue their campaign.